7 of the Newest Additions to the UNESCO World Heritage List

Each year, the UNESCO World Heritage List adds new sites around the world; each nominated destination undergoes a rigorous approval process. See seven of our favorites from this year’s 20 new sites and let us know if your favorite made the list! © Ericsch | Dreamstime.com

The ancient city of Qalhat in Oman includes inner and outer wall remains, ramparts and necropolises. The city was a major port on the East Coast of Arabia during the 11th and 15th centuries, providing a trade link between Arabia, East Africa, India and China. © Vatikaki | Dreamstime.com

In Spain, the Caliphate city of Medina Azahara was built in the mid-10th century. It prospered several years before falling during a civil war. The city’s remains include urban structures such as roads, bridges, water systems and more, reflecting the historic Western Islamic civilization. © Alvaro Trabazo Rivas | Dreamstime.com

Construction on the Cathedral of Naumburg began in 1028; the site displays spectacular medieval art and architecture, as well as Romanesque and early Gothic styles. The choir and life-sized sculptures are considered the highlights of the cathedral. © Anyaivanova | Dreamstime.com

On Japan’s Kyushu Island, early Christian missionaries built 10 villages, a castle and a cathedral, likely the first Christian settlements in the area during a time in which Christianity was banned in the country. One other Western specialty the visitors introduced to Japan in 1542? Gun powder. © Stockcreations | Dreamstime.com

Eight archaeological sites sit in Iran’s Fars Province. The fortified structures and palaces were part of the Sassanian Empire, 224–658 C.E. The architecture utilized the natural topography and includes influences from Roman art, which impacted Islamic styles throughout Iran. © Aliaksandr Mazurkevich | Dreamstime.com

In China’s Guizhou Province, Fanjingshan is a mountainous, highly biodiverse area differing greatly in altitude. The isolated region is home to many unique endemic species, like the Guizhou Snub-Nosed Monkey, the Chinese Giant Salamander and the Forest Musk Deer. © Ppmaker2007 | Dreamstime.com

The Aasivissuit–Nipisat Inuit hunting ground in West Greenland reflects more than 4,000 years of human history. The site features large winter houses, evidence of caribou hunting and Paleo-Inuit and Inuit cultural indicators, such as seasonal migrations. © Hel080808 | Dreamstime.com